BMW 3 Series Is Set To Get A Longer Wheelbase Iteration In January 2021

• Will be 120mm longer and its wheelbase extended by 110mm compared to its standard model.

• Rear legroom will be longer by 43mm, with revised rear seats.

• Expect features from the standard model to be carried over.

• It is likely to share 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.0-litre diesel engines from the standard model.

• Likely to replace the 3 Series Gran Turismo.

With 2021 just around the corner, BMW India has already revealed its first offering for the year, and it's a longer wheelbase iteration of the 3 Series sedan. Dubbed the Gran Limousine, BMW will launch the stretched sedan in India on January 21, 2021. It’s interesting to note that India will be the first right-hand drive market to get the long wheelbase 3 Series as it was originally meant for the Chinese market back when it debuted in 2019. Here’s what to expect:

 

As the name suggests, the 3 Series Gran Limousine is an extended version of the 3 Series. Measuring at 4,829mm in length, it is 120mm longer than the standard model. In terms of wheelbase, it stretches further by 110mm at 2,961mm. Aside from that, there aren’t any visual differences between the two 3 Series models.

The cabin may look familiar up front, but the real changes are towards the rear. Due to the increase in length and wheelbase, you get an extra 43mm of legroom. The rear seats have also gotten revised headrests, comfier cushions and a central armrest in between. Expect similar features to the standard model such as BMW gesture control, wireless charging, Apple CarPlay support, three-zone auto climate control and ambient lighting among others.

Under the hood, expect the 3 Series Gran Limousine to share powertrains with the standard model. This includes a, 190PS/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, 260PS/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol, and 190PS/400Nm 2.0-litre diesel engine options. All engines are paired to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

The standard BMW 3 Series retails from Rs 42.30 lakh to Rs 49.30 lakh (ex-showroom). Expect the Gran Limousine to be priced at a premium. It will most likely replace the 3 Series Gran Turismo in the model lineup since the Bavarian brand announced that it will pull the plug on the grand tourer in global markets last year.